Official Statement from the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. Regarding the Public Disclosure by Former Presiding Bishop Charles H. Ellis III

In recent weeks, reports concerning personal conduct of our former Presiding Prelate, Bishop Charles H. Ellis III, began circulating across social media and in the press. In response to these public allegations, Bishop Ellis has acknowledged his engagement in an inappropriate relationship.

As a community rooted in faith, we understand the gravity of this situation and the impact it has on our organization and the broader Christian community. This revelation has brought sorrow to our leadership, our membership, and to the broader body of believers who hold this organization in trust. Rooted in holiness and integrity, the PAW takes matters of moral indiscretion, particularly among our leaders, seriously and remain committed to the biblical standards that govern spiritual leadership.

We extend our deepest apologies to those who have been affected by this revelation. We acknowledge the pain and disappointment that this information has caused. Though our leadership had no prior knowledge of this situation, we are committed to addressing this matter with the utmost spiritual sensitivity and integrity. Bishop Ellis is addressing this matter with his family and the advice of his legal counsel. In alignment with our internal governance, we have initiated formal review that consists of discovery of the facts and understanding of the past few years with the intent of coming to a point of reconciliation.

As we have begun our International Summer Convention, we have done so with humility and clarity of purpose. While this moment calls for honest reflection, it does not diminish the strength of our mission or the faithfulness of our members. We remain fully committed to advancing the work of the Lord in truth, order and love.

In times of trial, we turn to the Word of God for guidance and strength. The Scriptures remind us in I John 1:9, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” We believe in the power of repentance and the possibility of redemption through sincere confession and genuine repentance. We also draw strength from Galatians 6:1, which after proper discovery instructs us, “Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you may be tempted.” It is our duty to approach this situation with compassion and a spirit of restoration, while also upholding the tenets of Faith.